Senator Trish Crossin paid tribute today to one of the Territory’s dearly loved icons with the passing of Aunty Hilda Muir.
Date: 14 October 2008
Senator Trish Crossin paid tribute today to one of the Territory’s dearly loved icons with the passing of Aunty Hilda Muir.
“As the Territory mourns the loss of another member of the Stolen Generation, this lady was an inspiration to many Territorians’, said Senator Crossin
Hilda Muir was born in 1920 near Borroloola, and spent her early life travelling the Gulf Country surrounded by her family, before being taken away and put in the Kahlin Home.
As a member of the Stolen Generation, she was encouraged to put her life in words and in 2001 launched the book Very Big Journey: My Life as I Remember It . This is a story that should become an important part of our schools history curriculum.
In 2000 Hilda returned to her Yanyuwa land near Borroloola and was finally recognised as an owner and custodian of that country.
“Hilda Muir will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She was a wonderful, gentle and kind lady – who persevered with optimism and love despite what life threw her way,” Senator Crossin said.
“I am proud to be a member of the Rudd Government who acknowledged the hurt and suffering of the Stolen Generation through the Apology in Canberra in February this year, and I’m glad Aunty Hilda was able to hear her Labor Government say that.”
“I would like to offer my condolences to Aunty Hilda’s family and friends – she will be forever remembered and greatly missed,” Senator Crossin said.